Saturday, August 13, 2022

DISNEY FROZEN @ KEY BANK STATE THEATRE



DISNEY FROZEN

AUGUST 11-SEPTEMBER 11, 2022

216-241-6000 or playhousesquare.org

Roy Berko

Disney has created some of Broadway’s most memorable musicals including THE LION KING, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, MARY POPPINS and NEWSIES THE MUSICAL.  FROZEN, unfortunately, does not deserve to join that exalted list. It’s not terrible, but kids will probably not be enchanted, adults should be adequately interested, and  all will be awed by the special effects and lighting

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

Disney has knocked it out of the park with the wondrous, icy world its creative team has invented for the stage production of "Frozen."

That's a tall order, translating the beloved 2013 animated film to the stage for the live musical, and this show exceeds all expectations in bringing the magic. "Frozen," whose North American tour is playing a five-week run through Sept. 11 at Playhouse Square's State Theatre, dazzles with its incredible special effects, gorgeous costuming and sets and touching story of self-sacrificing, sisterly love.


To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review here.

Howard Gollop

Yes, Elsa (powerful Caroline Bowman) -- the ice queen who rejects the Norwegian  royal court that first rejects her in fear of her magic wintery powers -- ascends the glacial mount of her new ice palace to burst into a new icicle pantsuit as she belts out the runaway hit, "Let it Go." 

Yes, the cuddly snowman Olaf, deftly handled by the onstage puppeteer actor F. Michael Haynie, insinuates his lovable goofiness into the hearts of the audience. 

Yes, the stage erupts into one glittering ice spectacle into another, sending chills into even the most overheated audience member.

What doesn't seem to erupt into any sensation at all is the tepid book/script by Jennifer Lee -- at odds with itself in pursuit of a narrative that vacillates between sisterly bonding and male heroism-cum-villainy. 

To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Sheri Gross
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning

When your youngsters come begging for you to take them to see the Broadway Touring Production of Disney’s “Frozen”, trust me. You will enjoy it as much if not more than they will. This is solid family entertainment that is great musical theater for all ages. 

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey

This monumental touring production is highlighted by one number, the Act One closer "Let It Go," which is set in a glistening ice palace and is dazzling, stupefying and magical. It's tempting to say that song alone is worth the price of admission, but that's a tough call since the rest of the show stumbles as often as it soars.

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.

Laura Kennelly

Bottom Line: It’s Disney so yes, it’s life lessons suitable for children. (Many excited princesses in full princess garb attended opening night.) As for adults? Well, after intermission, a short segment about Hygge (roughly translates as “good feelings”) with lightly-clad dancers enjoying a sauna seems designed for older visitors (and has nothing to do with the plot—except that it’s fun).

 Side Note: I was lucky enough to see the Broadway production of Frozen, with Baldwin Wallace University graduate Ciara RenĂ©e as Elsa, a few days before Broadway shut down in March 2020. This touring version includes some of the Broadway show’s special effects, but not all. Unfortunately, this reduces the impact of the production, one which depends on massive special effects to create an enchanted frozen world. I doubt its intended audience (young, first-time theater goers) and loyal Disney fans will care. Disney magic tends to conquer all.

To see a full review of this show, read Laura's posts at Cool Cleveland.

Kate Klotzbach
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Kate's posts here.

Joey Morona

'Frozen" isn't the perfect musical.  It oftens feels overstuffed with extraneous musical numbers, elaborate costumes, larger-than-life sets and flashy effects serving as distractions from the somewhat flimsy story and numerous plot holes.  Still, its message of self-love and acceptance is something we should all be reminded of from time to time.  So, try seeing the show through the eyes of a child.  Feel, don't conceal.  Enjoy the spectacle and--you guessed it--just let it go. 


To see a full review of this show, read Joey's posts here.

 

Monday, August 8, 2022

THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL@ Blank Canvas



THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL
BLANK CANVAS
AUGUST 5-21, 2022

 

Roy Berko
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.


Howard Gollop

Assuming the directorial reigns for the (at last) Cleveland production, Patrick Ciamacco, brilliantly translates the subversive immersive (aquatically and otherwise) spirit of the show into an invitingly intimate production. 
He has inspiringly whipped a cast of varying talents  into a class-A act. What's even more surprising, he and his team have created nothing short of a pocket-size Broadway extravaganza.

To see a full review of this show, read Howard Gollop's review here.

Sheri Gross

“SpongeBob the Musical” is a blast for all ages, with lovable characters, cool music, vivid lighting, creative cartoon projections, and it even has an optimistic message. Do yourself a favor and watch an episode of the TV series in order to appreciate every nuance that this cast has managed to capture, then put on your scuba gear and follow “Patchy the Pirate’s” voice to Blank Canvas Theatre for an under the sea experience that is out of this world.


To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey

This musical spinoff from the uber-popular animated TV show (and a series of films) has found itself on the tiny stage at Blank Canvas Theatre. And thanks to director Patrick Ciamacco, who is a wizard at downsizing huge musical productions without losing a gram of energy or excitement, this production is a fast-paced, Jello-colored delight.

 

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.



 

OUR COUNTRY'S GOOD at Seat of the Pants Productions



OUR COUNTRY'S GOOD

Reinberger Auditorium
August 5-21, 2022 

Roy Berko

OUR COUNTRY’S GOOD exposes the viewer to a part of history not well known to many.   The overly-long script gets a creditable staging by Seats of the Pants Productions.  It is worth the sit for anyone interested in probing theater.


To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

 

Sunday, August 7, 2022

SONDHEIM ON SONDHEIM @ Cain Park's Alma Theatre



SONDHEIM ON SONDHEIM
August 4-14-, 2022
216-371-3000 or visit tinyurl.com/ye2b2zzu

Roy Berko

SONDHEIM ON SONDHEIM is a theatre-lovers dream.  It is an in-depth look at one of America’s musical theatre greats presented in his spoken words, his musical sounds, and creative lyrics.  It is a must see for anyone who admires his work or is interested in finding out more about Sondheim!

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Sheri Gross
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning
No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey


This iteration of Sondheim on Sondheim will tweak the pleasure zones of Sondheim devotees, because how can you miss with this kind of material? But due to some odd design and directorial choices, this production doesn't quite "finish the hat." 


To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.


Wednesday, August 3, 2022

West Side Story @ Porthouse Theatre


Through August 14, 2022
https://www.kent.edu/porthouse
(330) 672-3884

 

Roy Berko

WEST SIDE STORY is near the top of my list of all-time great musicals. The creative choreography and solid character development of the Porthouse production did nothing to dissuade my love for the show.  Bravo!!!  I look forward to more shows produced by the Terri Kent and Martin CĂ©spedes dynamic duo!

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

Passion, love, hate and tragedy leap onto the stage at Porthouse Theatre with its electrifying production of West Side Story.

... Director Terri Kent and artistic collaborator/choreographer Martin Cespedes have combined forces to create a swirling, constantly moving world of warring street gangs and star-crossed lovers caught amid hate, prejudice and violence in 1957 New York City. The 36 actors in their terrific cast throw themselves into this timeless musical ...

.
To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review here.

Sheri Gross

No review yet.
To see a full review of this show, read Sheri Gross' review here.

Mark Horning

Porthouse Theatre has always been more than the show. It is the gathering of old friends and family to break bread picnic style on the spacious grounds. It is also a chance to see the future stars of Broadway as they practice their craft for the first time. This remarkable production of “West Side Story” is not to be missed. Bring the clan and enjoy a superb evening of entertainment.

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's Review here.

Chris Howey

Porthouse Theatre's Production of 'West Side Story' Is So Damn Good

To see a full review of this show, read Chris Howey's Review here.